Hyundai Verna

The new Verna is the latest in a long line of mid-sized sedans from Hyundai. It's got the usual ingredients...

The new Verna is the latest in a long line of mid-sized sedans from Hyundai. It's got the usual ingredients – an attractive design and a lengthy feature list – but this Verna also addresses many of its predecessors' age-old weaknesses, like their wayward handling. On offer are six engine-gearbox options, meaning there's a Verna for every budget.

Retrained styling makes the new Verna look rather sophisticated. You can say the same of the cabin too. The das...

Retrained styling makes the new Verna look rather sophisticated. You can say the same of the cabin too. The dashboard is smartly laid-out and material quality is impressive for a mid-size sedan. Unfortunately, the Verna's cabin doesn't give the same sense of space as most rivals and rear seat room is limited too.
The Verna range starts with the 100hp, 1.4 petrol but this version's basic equipment levels make it an option only for buyers on a tight budget. In any case, it's the 123hp, 1.6-litre engine that impresses more for its flexibility, refinement and performance. The 1.6 petrol's manual gearbox requires little effort to use while the 6-speed torque converter auto comes across as a bit too eager in its shifts.
Buyers interested in a diesel can opt for a 90hp, 1.4-litre engine that's available only in the low trims. However, the diesel engine of interest is the more powerful 128hp, 1.6-litre unit. The engine is quiet, linear in its build of power and generally very likable. Manual and auto gearbox options are available for the 1.6 diesel and both are nice to use.
Also impressive is the Verna's ride and handling. The Hyundai feels settled at high speeds (more so the heavier diesels) and isn't too disturbed by potholes either. It's not a sporty car but makes for a friendly city commuter.